Acanthurus Coeruleus (Atlantic Blue Tang)

October 22nd, 2008 |

Author: Pets // Pets, Livestock, and Wildlife // ArticlePros.com

Scientific name: Acanthurus Coeruleus
Common names: Atlantic or Caribbean Blue Tang
Maximum Length: 9 in.
Minimum tank size: 75 gal.
Hardiness: Easy to Medium
Aggressiveness: May fight with members of their own species.
Reef Compatibility: Generally safe. May nip at LPS if underfeed.
Diet: Varied diet, mostly vegetable matter. Feed 3 times a day.

In the wild, the Atlantic blue tang is found Caribbean and the West Atlantic ocean along coral reefs where they feed on algae and occasionally on small crustaceans.
They are found in rocky areas from very shallow down to more than 100 feet. They live in holes and crevices where they are protected from predators at night.

Young specimens are mostly yellow with the dorsal, anal fins and eyes outlined in blue. As grow older, the yellow color is replaced by the blue color with horizontal lines their body.

Blue tangs are herbivores and must be provided with a diet of marine algae and plant-based fish food in order for them remain healthy. They will eat meaty foods, but most of their diet should be plant-based.

The ideal tank should have a good water current to play in, a ph of 8.1 – 8.4, temperature between 75°F and 78°F (25°C – 27°C), sg 1.020 – 1.025, dkh 8 – 12°. A 100 gallon or larger aquarium is necessary to provide plenty of swimming room.

Patrice Lapointe
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